As for the Queen Mother of the West, she had never been one to remain content beneath another's eaves. She had ambitions of her own and aspired to reach the clouds. Now that she had abruptly ascended to the position of foremost among the female Immortal Beings and had received the decree to guard the western region of the Heavenly Court, govern yin qi, and maintain Heaven's destiny, how could she be willing to handle matters perfunctorily?
She immediately straightened her robes and headdress and set out for the Heavenly Court.
The Jade Emperor Haotian had also received the Sage's summons. Upon hearing that the Golden Mother, who had once served Dao Ancestor Hongjun alongside him, was about to take up residence in the Heavenly Court, command the female Immortal Beings, and administer yin qi, his feelings churned with complexity.
What worried him was this: the two of them had never truly been husband and wife. They had merely been forcibly matched by the Saint to counter Dong Wang Gong, using yin and yang qi to secretly restrain Heaven's destiny. Now that authority was being divided again, their mutual constraints would only grow worse. What pleased him was this: after spending countless ages together day and night, their tacit understanding had long since sunk into their bones. They knew each other inside and out, and even with their authority divided, they could still work together wholeheartedly. She could at least be considered a rare and valuable aide.
Within Tongming Hall, purple gauze served as mats, while Hundred Harmonies Incense burned; cloud brocade hung as curtains, and nine-rayed lamps shone brightly. Jade Gate dates were arranged in rows, and grape wine was poured. Palace attendants carried fruit, while Immortal chefs prepared the feast. The Jade Emperor stood in full ceremonial dress